Lavender: The Universal Oil

mell of lavender has to be one of the most exquisiteRene-Maurice Gattefosse, one of the founders of the
sensations your mind, body and soul can experience.science of aroma therapy, burned his hands by
Folklore has given this tall, fragrant flower many namesaccident in his laboratory. Thinking he was submerging
and properties. Elf’s Leaf, Nard, Nardus, andthe burned hand in a pot of water when in fact it was
Spike, has been said to carry powers of love,lavender essential oil. He later noticed that the hand
protection, sleep chastity, longevity, purification,healed faster and with less scarring. Lavender
happiness and peace. Lavender was carried to seeessential oil is one of the only essential oils that is safe
ghosts and worn to protect against the “evilto use undiluted directly on your skin and is baby safe
eye”. Sachets were made and filled with theas well.
dried flowers to attract love. Its has even been givenHere is an easy salve recipe to make using the dried
masculine qualities and an association with the planetflowers of lavender and lavender essential oil. This
Mercury and its element is air.salve may be used to help treat dry cuticles, hangnails,
This spiky flower was imported by the ancient Greeksminor burns and scrapes. This does not replace any
from Syria for its fragrance. Today commercialmedical assistance as with any injury you may need
perfume houses still use lavender essential oil as theto seek the advise of your medical doctor. This salve
base ingredients in many of their perfume blends. Thisputs no claims on healing and is meant only to assist.
herb is grown commercially in England, France, BulgariaWhat you will need; Paper towels, 1 cup olive oil,
and Croatia and many other parts of the world.½ once lavender herb (dried flowers), ½
Depending on where lavender is grown and at whichounce lavender essential oil, ½ ounce beeswax,
altitude, gives this herb its different healing properties.½ teaspoon vitamin E (400 unit capsule) and
The Botanical name Lavandula comes from the Latincheesecloth to strain.
word “lavare” which means “toPut lavender herb in your olive oil and bake in oven at
wash”. Lavender essential oils are also used in200 degrees for 3 hours. Allow this mixture to cool a
combination with massages to relax and relieve stresslittle, while its still war, strain lavender herb (with
from the body. Given the name “Universalcheesecloth) into a pan on top of the stove. Add
Oil” this herb stands up to its many claims.vitamin E ( ½ teaspoon). Add beeswax and stir
This aromatic essential oil should be in every householduntil melted, let cool some, add your essential oil to the
medicine cabinet or first aid kit. Lavender is known tomixture after it has cooled, pour into a wide mouth 5
work wonders on minor scrapes and burns, itchyounce jar or into five 1 oz jars.
insect bites and is used to prevent scarring. In 1910 Dr.